Nationwide Data Collectors Recruitment 2026: Apply for Research Study Across All Nigerian States
A nationwide research initiative has opened applications for qualified individuals to serve as Data Collectors for a major governance and civic engagement study titled “Citizen Mobilisation and Alternative Pressure Mechanisms in Political Action.” The project will be carried out across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), offering selected candidates the opportunity to participate in impactful field research focused on citizen participation, governance, and accountability.
The study aims to generate practical and evidence-based insights into how citizens engage in political and civic processes beyond elections, including advocacy, public accountability efforts, and grassroots mobilisation strategies. The research will use a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and case study documentation.
Nationwide Opportunity for Data Collectors
The recruitment exercise is open to applicants from all parts of Nigeria. Each state, including the FCT, will have two selected Data Collectors who will conduct field activities in both urban and rural communities.
Successful applicants will work closely with project supervisors and coordinators to ensure accurate, reliable, and timely data collection throughout the study period.
This opportunity is suitable for researchers, graduates, development practitioners, and individuals with prior experience in community-based surveys and digital field data collection.
Key Responsibilities of Selected Data Collectors
Selected candidates will be expected to:
- Participate in a compulsory training and orientation session
- Conduct surveys and interviews in assigned communities
- Use digital tools such as Kobo Collect and Google Forms for data entry
- Upload and verify collected data accurately
- Maintain ethical research standards, including confidentiality and informed consent
- Submit daily field reports, observations, and photographs
- Report field challenges and observations to supervisors promptly
The project requires professionalism, strong communication skills, and the ability to engage effectively with community members and stakeholders.
Qualifications and Requirements
Applicants interested in the Data Collector role must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
- Be fluent in local languages spoken within their assigned state
- Have experience using Kobo Collect, Google Forms, or similar digital data collection platforms
- Be available for the compulsory training scheduled for Saturday, 16th May 2026
- Be available throughout the 10-day fieldwork exercise from 18th to 30th May 2026
- Demonstrate attention to detail and ability to follow research guidelines
- Applicants with certification in data collection or research ethics, especially the UNICEF Agora Primary Data
- Collection Course, will have an added advantage during the selection process.
Expected Deliverables
Each selected Data Collector will be expected to:
- Attend the mandatory pre-field training
- Submit five pilot survey entries before deployment
- Participate in daily debrief and review meetings
- Complete at least 200 survey interviews within the assigned timeline
- Provide daily field notes and reflections
- Submit at least two field photographs daily
- Ensure timely submission of all assigned tasks and datasets
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 10:00 PM, Friday, 15th May 2026
- Training Date: Saturday, 16th May 2026
- Fieldwork Period: 18th – 30th May 2026
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants are required to complete the official application form through the link provided in the comment section of the original announcement.
Candidates are advised to submit accurate and complete information during the application process. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further stages of engagement.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The nationwide research project provides participants with valuable exposure to large-scale field research and governance-related studies in Nigeria. It also offers practical experience in digital data collection, stakeholder engagement, and policy-oriented research.
For young professionals and early-career researchers, the programme presents an opportunity to strengthen fieldwork experience while contributing to conversations around citizen participation, governance, and accountability in Nigeria.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure full availability throughout the training and fieldwork period, as commitment and professionalism will play a major role in successful participation.
